Single Review: Starspawn of Cthulhu – Crystal Ball for #METALMOMENTUM

Artist: Starspawn of Cthulhu
Title: Crystal Ball
Label: Independent
Release date: May 30th, 2025
Country: Italy
Format reviewed: High-quality digital recording

Single Review: A cover of Candlemass’ Crystal Ball by Starspawn of Cthulhu for #METALMOMENTUM by Pegah

The crystal ball has long been a symbol of mystery, foresight, and the human urge to glimpse what lies beyond the veil of the present. In doom metal, it becomes something darker—a mirror of fate, uncertainty, and the inescapable pull of destiny. With their new single, a cover of “Crystal Ball” by Candlemass (originally released in 1986), Starspawn of Cthulhu harness that imagery and push it further. At the same time the essence is preserved, they inject a unique atmosphere that unmistakably bears their signature.

From the opening riffs, it’s clear this isn’t a straightforward reproduction. The guitars are heavier and more cavernous, the synth textures wrap around the song like interstellar fog, and Roberto Biasin’s vocal delivery trades operatic drama for spectral incantation. It’s the same “Crystal Ball”, but glimpsed through a Lovecraftian distortion.

A standout moment comes with the second verse, featuring guest vocals from Giuseppe Guarini (King Potenaz). His performance adds another layer of character and intensity, helping the track feel less like a cover and more like a collaboration across eras and scenes. This cover succeeds because it doesn’t try to compete with Candlemass on their own terms. It’s a respectful tribute, but also a bold statement of identity.

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